Niles goes to the dogs when the Pooch Pow Wow and Canine Convention takes over Niles Community Park Saturday, July 21. Hosted by the Niles Main Street Association, this fun family event is celebrating its 14th anniversary of offering all canines the chance to show off their best talents, assets, and good looks. Enjoy the contests in which man and his best friend vie for top honors, and don't forget the whimsical doggie water park to keep canine companions cool. One of Fremont PD's finest, K9 "Dax," will be on hand for a demonstration with Officer Lambert accompanied by fellow officer Dennis Baca and K9 "Harkos."

Mutts and purebreds alike will be judged in six fun categories: Best Costume, Prettiest Female, Handsomest Male, Most Unusual Mix, Oldest Dog, and Best Rescue Story. Unique motifs are always on hand and sure to wow the crowd. Previous year's costume winners have shown galactic power as the entire cast of Star Wars and biker skills as a motor biker with biker "chick." However, simple costumes such as the beekeeper and his pug dressed as a bumblebee, and a gold prospector and his "mule" have proven just as effective

Dog games, a prize draw, and an Information Center staffed by Ohlone Humane Society (OHS) volunteers will also be part of the fun. OHS and other rescue organizations will be offering dogs for adoption during the event; retail booths with pet supplies, unique gifts, canine art, and other items will be open to spectators. Food and drink vendors will be present and a pancake breakfast kicks off the day's activities.

Show participants must register and pay an entry fee of $20 the day of the show, which includes goodie bag and entry in one class. Additional classes are $5 each. Pre-registration is recommended, and pre-paid entries receive a $5 discount. Participants may register online at www.niles.org/dogshow.html or call registrar Deborah Carey at (510) 790-0306. Register soon, as only the first 200 dogs will be admitted to the show.